2022 Cadillac XT5 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and polarizing design that, over time, became more familiar on the roads. Its blunt, bulbous nose and black windshield pillars created a floating roof effect, while swollen haunches balanced the styling. Despite its cartoonishly-flared quarter panels, the Highlander’s design was expected to appear tamer with time. The vehicle offered various trims, with the hybrid powertrain available in LE, XLE, Limited, or Platinum specifications. The evaluated model, a Highlander Hybrid Limited, featured electronic all-wheel drive, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a surround-view camera system, priced at $50,008 MSRP. The interior, while generally well-executed, had some cheap-feeling elements, though the two-tone leather and asymmetrical dashboard added an upscale touch.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 combined Cadillac’s signature design cues with a compact footprint and tall profile, resulting in a distinctive yet somewhat ungainly appearance. The Premium Luxury and Sport trims offered different styling cues, with chrome for the former and darker trim for the latter. The XT5’s interior, enhanced by the optional Platinum Package, featured semi-aniline leather and a microfiber sueded headliner, though it lacked a strong design theme. The seats were comfortable but not luxurious, and the interior didn’t have brand-specific markers like its German competitors. Cargo space was competitive, with 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving 36 mpg in combined driving. With 243 horsepower, the hybrid offered optional all-wheel drive and used an "E-CVT" for transmission. While more efficient, the Highlander Hybrid was less powerful and less enjoyable to drive than its predecessor. The steering was lifeless, and the ride was soft, leading to unwanted body movement. However, it handled well on smooth roads and offered a quiet, comfortable ride on the freeway.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered a base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 235 horsepower and an optional 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower. The V6 provided smooth power delivery and quick shifts from the nine-speed automatic transmission. The Platinum Package included a performance suspension with adaptive dampers, offering a comfortable ride with excellent body control. The steering was well-suited for luxury driving, and the cabin remained impressively quiet.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited provided roomy accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with heated and ventilated seats. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow, and the third-row seat was uncomfortable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 16 cubic feet behind the third row and 84.3 cubic feet with all seats folded. However, storage solutions were less accommodating than previous models.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered more front headroom than some German competitors but less rear headroom. It had more legroom in both rows, though the seats could have been more comfortable. Cargo space was competitive, with 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63 cubic feet with them folded. The center console was limited in space, but a small cubbyhole provided additional storage.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The top infotainment system featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and navigation. The system was user-friendly, though the sound quality varied. Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror were notable features.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was improved but still lacked sophistication compared to competitors. The optional Bose Performance Series 14-speaker system delivered excellent sound. However, the rotary controller and capacitive touchpads were not ideally placed.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The Highlander received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 came standard with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The optional Driver Assist Package added adaptive cruise control and enhanced braking features. The XT5 received top scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.